Q: What is Karate-Do?
A: Karate-Do's meaning means "Empty Hand". Karate-Do is a form of self-defense, an art, and a sport. In the self-defense form of Karate, one utilizes strikes, punches, and kicks to fend off an attacker. In the Art form of karate, one practices punches, strikes, blocks, kicks, and stances to exercise and strengthen the body, as well as to practice and perfect technique.
Q: What will I learn in Karate-Do?
A: You will learn Kihon (Basics), Kata (Forms), and Kumite (Sparring). Of all the important aspects of Karate, Kihon (Basics) is an important part of developing both kata (forms) and kumite (basics). In kihon, you will learn strikes, punches, blocks, kicks, and stances. In utilizing all those movements, you will practice kata (forms) to use mostly all the movements you have learned. In kumite (sparring), you will learn to defend yourself against an opponent to test reaction skills by using karate kihon (basics). Also, you will learn mokuso (meditation) and Japanese terminology so most of what we say in class won't sound weird to you.
Q: Will I learn from Tae Kwon Do or Kung Fu?
A: No. Those other martial arts are fine, but we teach traditional Japanese/Okinawan karate-do. If we taught those martial arts, we would be teaching more than just Karate, we would be teaching other martial arts.
Q: How much will this club cost?
A: Nothing. If you are a student or faculty member at Seattle University and have access to Connolly Center you don't have to pay anything.
Q: What equipment do I need for this club?(Recommended)
A: A karate-do gi (martial arts uniform), cloth sparring pads. Females must have a mouth guard to spar, chest guard is optional. Males are required to have a mouth guard AND groin cup. If you do not have the right saftey equipment for kumite, you don't spar. Ask Carlos for Karate-Do supplies. Also, please note that it is recommended that you have these supplies if you are attending SU for more than three quarters. If you are not you don't have to buy a uniform.
Q: Will I become like Bruce Lee or Jet Li?
A: No. This club cannot turn somebody into a martial arts legend. Bruce Lee was a man who did more for the martial arts community than anyone else, as well as being a splendid martial artist and great actor. No one can ever become the man Bruce Lee was.